5 Mental Tips To Train For Your Best Marathon Yet

5 Mental Tips To Train For Your Best Marathon Yet

Running a marathon is a major commitment, both physically and mentally. Physically, you will train harder than you would normally for a 5K or a small road race. You will test your limits, fitness, and endurance, all of which will be made stronger by a daily routine which includes proper exercise and diet.

Mentally, the challenge that lies before you is a big one. Not only will you encounter feelings of happiness and excitement, of euphoria and elation, but you will also inevitably feel sadness and despair, mental fatigue and hesitation. Whatever you do, don’t give up! You can make it to the finish line! Here are a few mental tips to help you run your best, most positive marathon yet.

Envision The Finish Line, Set Your Intention

At the very beginning of the race, imagine the finish line. Notice the color of the line, see the time clock on the tower as you cross the line, listen to the sound of the crowd looking on and cheering you through as you cross. Effective and clear realization triggers neurons in your brain to actually think that this goal is happening and can help it work together with your body to achieve the result you want.

Stay In The Moment

When you begin, do not think of the length of time in front of you, or the distance you have left to run. Staying present allows your brain to focus on the task at hand. Some of the runners of the most successful marathon noticed the benefits that remaining in the moment and not thinking of the future. Without the stress or nervous energy thinking ahead can produce, remaining at the moment will keep you in the zone.

Begin and Remain Positive

Start the marathon in a positive place. Harness your nerves and anticipation and channel that into a feeling of positivity. Be conscious of your mental language and how you are connecting with yourself. Focus on positive words rather than negative ones. And reward your accomplishments with at every mile.

Anticipate The Bad With The Good

There will be negative things that will happen during your run. You might cramp or get very fatigued. Think of those things days or even weeks before the race and, on race day, find encouragement from your surroundings.

Don’t Look Down

Instead of looking down at the pavement or ground while you run, look up and out. Notice your surroundings as they pass you by and fade into the background. Keep your sights on what is before you, not what is beneath you.

These five tips to help you run your best marathon may just come in handy one day. Good luck!